4.6
(758)
9,008
hikers
26
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Bigbury offer diverse coastal and estuary landscapes within the South Devon National Landscape. The region is characterized by sandy beaches, low cliffs, and the distinctive Burgh Island, accessible via a tidal causeway. The River Avon estuary contributes to varied habitats, providing opportunities for exploration along its banks and nearby woodlands.
Last updated: May 3, 2026
5.0
(5)
50
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
5.0
(2)
79
hikers
4.31km
01:11
70m
70m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.8
(5)
55
hikers
13.1km
03:42
280m
280m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(4)
32
hikers
12.0km
03:26
280m
280m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
26
hikers
10.7km
03:06
270m
270m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Website: https://www.lovingthebeach.co.uk/bigbury-on-sea/ Menu: https://www.lovingthebeach.co.uk/food/
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fantastic view along the coastal path to Ayrmer Cove and Bigbury
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The views from the coast path north-west of Challaborough are great. The beach is beautiful, and you can see Burgh Island in the background.
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The views from the coast path north-west of Challaborough are great. The beach is beautiful, and you can see Burgh Island in the background.
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Burgh Island is a tidal island, a short distance off the coast of Bigbury-on-Sea. It's separated by a sandbar which you can walk across at low tide. When the tide comes in, there is a tall tractor bus which can take you across. The island has a quirky pub and a posh art deco hotel.
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Fenycombe Point is the headland north of Beacon Point on the Kingston section of the South West Coast Path. The views are amazing, especially across Erme Mouth.
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Good hiking or climbing shoes, pay attention to the tides
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There are over 25 family-friendly hiking trails around Bigbury, ranging from easy strolls to more moderate coastal paths. This includes 16 easy routes perfect for families with younger children or those looking for a relaxed outing.
Bigbury offers a diverse landscape for family hikes. You can expect stunning coastal paths with breathtaking sea views, sandy beaches perfect for exploring rock pools at low tide, and picturesque estuary walks along the River Avon. Some trails also venture into charming woodlands like Pithill Wood, providing a varied experience for all.
Absolutely! Bigbury has many easy and short routes ideal for families with young children or those new to hiking. A great option is the View of Burgh Island – Burgh Island loop from Ringmore, which is an easy 4.1 km hike with minimal elevation gain, offering lovely views without being too strenuous.
Many trails around Bigbury are dog-friendly, especially the coastal paths and beach areas. However, it's always best to check local signage for any seasonal restrictions, particularly on beaches during peak times. Always keep dogs under control and clean up after them to ensure everyone enjoys the beautiful surroundings.
Bigbury is rich in natural beauty and interesting landmarks. A highlight is Hope Cove Beach, a charming village with excellent swimming. You can also explore Pithill Wood for a woodland experience, or visit South Sands Beach. The iconic Burgh Island, accessible via a tidal causeway or sea tractor, is a must-see feature on many coastal walks.
Yes, there are several excellent circular routes designed for families. For a moderate adventure, consider the Burgh Island, Challaborough Bay & Ringmore loop from Bigbury-on-Sea. This 7.6 km route offers diverse scenery and allows you to return to your starting point without retracing your steps.
The spring and summer months (April to September) are generally ideal for family hiking in Bigbury, offering milder weather and longer daylight hours. The coastal paths are particularly beautiful during these seasons. Autumn can also be lovely with vibrant colours, though weather can be more unpredictable. Always check the forecast before heading out.
The komoot community highly rates the family-friendly hikes around Bigbury, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning coastal views, the unique experience of Burgh Island, and the variety of trails suitable for all ages. The opportunity to explore rock pools and enjoy sandy beaches is also frequently highlighted as a favourite aspect.
Many routes in Bigbury boast fantastic viewpoints, especially those along the South West Coast Path. The Ayrmer Cove – All Hallows Church loop from Burgh Island, a moderate 10.7 km hike, provides elevated perspectives of the coastline and surrounding natural beauty, including views towards Ayrmer Cove and the historic All Hallows Church.
For families with older children or those seeking a longer adventure, Bigbury offers moderate routes that provide a good challenge. The Hoist Point Coastal View – Fenycombe Point loop from Burgh Island is a moderate 13 km hike with significant elevation changes, offering expansive coastal views and a more extended exploration of the area.
While Bigbury is primarily accessed by car, local bus services do connect Bigbury-on-Sea with nearby towns like Kingsbridge, which has further connections. It's advisable to check the current bus timetables for specific routes and stops that might be convenient for reaching various trailheads, especially when planning family outings.
Bigbury-on-Sea has several car parks, particularly near Bigbury Beach and for access to Burgh Island. These are generally well-located for starting many of the coastal and circular walks. Some smaller villages or trailheads might have limited parking, so it's always good to plan your starting point and check for parking availability beforehand.


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